Although a simple IV drip may seem routine or “spa-like,” the truth is that you’re allowing someone to inject a substance directly into your bloodstream. What goes into that IV can either help you—or harm you.
The takeaway: Take your IV seriously. It’s a medical procedure, not a casual wellness trend.
 

2. Choose a Reputable Provider

• Check credentials: Make sure the clinic is licensed and staffed by qualified professionals (RN, PA, or physician).
• Ask about supervision: A licensed medical director should oversee all IV therapy services.
• Ask about emergency readiness: A safe clinic should have an EpiPen and AED (automated defibrillator) available in case of allergic reactions or other emergencies.

3. Verify Sterility and Equipment
If your IV solution isn’t prepared under sterile conditions, you could be exposed to harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins. While many clinics follow proper standards, not all do—so it’s up to you to ask questions.
A key safety tip: Many IV ingredients must be refrigerated. Ask when your IV bag was made—any bag left unrefrigerated for more than four hours should never be used.
Other sterility checks:

• Single-use needles and tubing should be opened in front of you.
• The IV area should be clean and organized.
• Look for medical-grade disinfectant wipes and strong hygiene practices.
• Staff should always sanitize or wash their hands and wear gloves before touching your skin.

4. Know What’s Going Into Your IV

• Ask for ingredients: You have the right to know exactly what’s in your IV bag. Request a written list at the end of your visit.
• Check expiration dates: All solutions should be within their expiration window.
• Confirm dosage: Infusions should be customized to your body weight, needs, and health status—not a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

5. Prepare Your Body
A little preparation can make your infusion smoother and safer:

• Hydrate well before your appointment.
• Eat a light meal to prevent dizziness or nausea.
• Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can dehydrate you and affect blood flow.

6. During the Infusion

• Stay aware: Tell your provider if you feel pain, burning, or dizziness.
• Watch the IV site: There should be no redness, swelling, or leaking. If anything looks wrong, ask them to stop the drip immediately—fluid leaking under the skin can cause serious limb threating damage.
• Relax: Calm breathing and music can make your experience more comfortable.

7. Watch for Side Effects

• Mild bruising or coolness around the site is normal.
• If you develop shortness of breath, fever, chest pain, or hives, seek medical help immediately.

8. Aftercare

• Keep the bandage on for at least 30 minutes.
• Drink plenty of water afterward.

Bonus Tip: Provide Your Medical History
Before any IV treatment, share your medical history and medication list. Conditions like heart or kidney disease or other conditions that cause electrolyte abnormalities require special precautions—or may mean IV therapy isn’t appropriate.
A reputable provider will request this information before taking your payment or starting your infusion.

Your Safety Comes First
IV therapy can offer real benefits when performed by experienced medical professionals in a clean, well-equipped facility.
At Joint Pain Solutions & Wellness Center, every infusion is supervised by licensed clinicians who follow strict safety protocols to ensure your comfort and health. Nothing in this blog was intended to scare you — only to empower you, as a healthcare consumer, to make informed choices and achieve the best possible results from your IV drips.
 

Written by: Jeffrey B. Brown, M.D.
Founder, Joint Pain Solutions & Wellness Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Visit us at: www.jointpainsolutioncenter.com
Email: contact@jointpainsolutioncenter.com
Phone: 954-363-9080